I successfully Replaced My Fitness Coach for Artificial Intelligence – With Great Results.

A person utilizing a mobile device for AI-driven running guidance A runner
She used AI to prepare for her second 21km race and secured a new record.

After a holiday period packed with indulgent treats and downtime, numerous individuals head into January looking to get their fitness back on track.

However, is it possible that AI be changing the world of exercise by providing an option to human coaches?

Tailored Programs and Adaptable Timelines

One fitness enthusiast employed an artificial intelligence application for impromptu preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon.

This young woman hailing from a town in Wales said she appreciated the liberty to ask it questions any time of day – a feature she felt was unavailable with a personal trainer.

Leah relied on an AI-powered running app that provided her customized schedules with audio coaching and speed targets for her first long-distance race in recent years.

She explained she requested it to create a regimen merging cardio and the gym, and it generated an multi-week programme customized to her event day and goals.

Leah then adjusted the plan to suit her lifestyle, which she described was highly practical.

The following year, she chose a alternative application because it was cheaper and she could ask it questions at any time. Her result was a full minute quicker than her target finish.

She noted she wanted to avoid the pressure from a live instructor.

"With artificial intelligence you have to motivate yourself, which I actually prefer," she added.
A man training with weights after using an AI plan A weightlifter
He has been leveraging AI for his fitness and diet plans, and states he has never been stronger.

Significant Fitness Gains

In a similar case, Another individual, in his twenties, from Swansea, has been using artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has never felt stronger, boosting his chest press from 70kg to 110kg.

Richard resorted to a AI assistant for assistance after being unable to run a running event.

"I realized I need to get myself in shape," he commented.

The free tool constructed a workout and diet plan personalized to his goals, and created structured routines.

"I work out for about two hours a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he added.

The Expense Contrast: AI vs. Conventional Coaching

A recent survey in the previous year analyzed costs for numerous of the largest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds per month, for standard full-access plans.

Prices ranged from £23 at the cheapest provider to £132 at the highest-priced.

Based on further data, personal trainers determine their own fees, usually a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per hour-long appointment in most areas and about a similar range in London.

Customers typically use a trainer one or two times a week and collaborate for a few months, however these arrangements are often adaptable.

A personal trainer working with a trainee in a fitness studio A personal trainer
Personal trainer one professional maintains artificial intelligence will cannot replicate the personal bond that comes from face-to-face coaching.

The Essential Human Element

Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, based in Cardiff, acknowledged AI can be beneficial to accelerate results, but is convinced it will not supplant the human connection and responsibility that in-person coaching provides.

The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a trainer, specialises in senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He mentioned some of his clients also employ technology.

"In my opinion it's very valuable, additional information is good," he stated.
"I think the more that people are connected digitally the more they'll want personal contact because they crave the empathy from the understanding that is absent from a machine," he added.

Dafydd said AI can educate clients and make guidance more efficient.

But, he said true dedication comes when people appear in person for their sessions.

"As useful as it is at 2am, a computer cannot ensure you show up at early morning before work," he concluded.

For many, he said, the fitness center is a place to leave phones behind and take a break from technology.

Kenneth Bell
Kenneth Bell

A tech strategist and writer passionate about digital transformation and emerging technologies.